Araceli Correa
Oak Lawn
Summary
Compassionate and dedicated educator seeking a Special Education Teacher position to support students with diverse learning needs. Committed to creating an inclusive classroom environment that fosters academic, social, and emotional growth for all learners.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Student Teacher
Hometown Elementary School
Hometown
08.2025 - Current
- Designed and delivered whole-group, small-group, and individualized instruction in a self-contained classroom for students with mild to moderate disabilities.
- Developed and adapted lesson plans aligned with IEP goals, Common Core Standards, and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles.
- Supported the creation, implementation, and monitoring of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs); participated in multidisciplinary team meetings.
- Employed diverse instructional strategies and assistive technologies to differentiate instruction and support varied learning styles.
- Collaborated with general education teachers, paraprofessionals, and related service providers to ensure cohesive and inclusive learning experiences.
- Implemented Positive Behavior Intervention Plans (BIPs) to promote student self-regulation and engagement.
- Supervised and guided paraprofessionals, delegating classroom tasks and supporting professional growth.
- Utilized curricula including Unique Learning System (ULS), STAR Program, Readtopia Go, and Language for Learning.
- Modeled communication using AAC devices (TouchChat, TD Snap Motor).
- Provided daily living support, including toileting and hygiene, to foster student independence and well-being.
Extended School Year (ESY) Paraprofessional
Hometown Elementary School
Hometown
06.2022 - 08.2025
- Provided consistent academic, behavioral, and functional support to students with disabilities enrolled in the Prescriptive Transitional Program (PTP) and Communication, Academic, and Social Education (CASE) special education programs.
- Implemented individualized education and behavior plans to prevent skill regression and promote continued growth throughout the summer term.
- Collaborated closely with lead teachers, therapists, and support staff to maintain a structured, engaging, and supportive learning environment for students with intensive needs.
- Delivered small-group and one-on-one instruction, and supervised students during Adapted Physical Education (APE) and music therapy sessions.
Special Education Paraprofessional
Hometown Elementary School
Hometown
06.2022 - 07.2025
- Provided direct instructional and behavioral support to students with special needs in grades K-5 within both self-contained and inclusive classroom settings.
- Collaborated with teachers to modify curriculum, collect data on academic and behavioral IEP goals, and prepare classroom materials.
- Facilitated social skills development and supported students' executive functioning during transitions and unstructured times.
- Supervised and assisted students during inclusion activities such as PE, Art, Library, and Music to promote participation and engagement.
- Delivered essential daily living support, including toileting and hygiene, fostering independence, dignity, and overall well-being.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
Trinity Christian College
Palos Heights, IL12.2025
Associate in Applied Science -
Robert Morris College
Chicago, IL12.2007
Skills
- Instructional Strategies
- IEP Development
- Behavior Management
- Collaboration & Teamwork
- Assistive Technology
- Inclusive Practices
- Data Collection & Progress Monitoring
- Daily Living Support
- Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Certification
- IL, Illinois Professional Educator License, Learning Behavior Specialist 1, Special Education K- Age 22, 12/01/25
- Substitute Teaching License
- Paraprofessional Licensure, Pre-Kindergarten through Age 22
Professional References
- Dr. Amanda Bencick, Principal, Hometown Elementary, (708) 952-7791, abencik@d123.org
- Kara Goutos, Special Education Teacher, Hometown Elementary, (708) 952-7942, Kgoutos@d123.org
- Julie Carey, Speech/Language Pathologist, Hometown Elementary, (708) 952-7816, jcarey@d123.org
- Lia Ditter, College Supervisor, Trinity Christian College, (779) 758-5176, lditter@d91.net
Languages
Spanish
Professional
Timeline
Student Teacher
Hometown Elementary School
08.2025 - Current
Extended School Year (ESY) Paraprofessional
Hometown Elementary School
06.2022 - 08.2025
Special Education Paraprofessional
Hometown Elementary School
06.2022 - 07.2025
Bachelor of Science - Special Education
Trinity Christian College
Associate in Applied Science -
Robert Morris College